Method for PHICH resource allocation

ABSTRACT

A method is disclosed for PHICH resource allocation in a wireless communication system that supports flexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in which different TDD UL-DL configurations are available and the TDD UL-DL configuration used by first UEs which operate according to the flexible TDD configuration can be different to the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs which operate according to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration. The method comprising allocating a PHICH resource for both first UEs and second UEs according to LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a national stage application of InternationalApplication No. PCT/JP2014/056083 entitled “METHOD FOR PHICH RESOURCEALLOCATION,” filed on Feb. 28, 2014, which claims the benefit ofpriority of Australian Patent Application No. AU2013900937, filed onMar. 18, 2013, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in theirentirety by reference thereto.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a method for PHICH resource allocation.

BACKGROUND ART

The following abbreviations may be found herein:

3GPP THIRD GENERATION PARTNERSHIP PROJECT ACK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT BWBANDWIDTH CCE CONTROL CHANNEL ELEMENT CRS CELL-SPECIFIC REFERENCE SIGNALDL DOWNLINK DM-RS DEMODULATION REFERENCE SIGNAL eNB (OR eNodeB) LTE BASESTATION HARQ (OR H-ARQ) HYBRID AUTOMATIC REPEAT REQUEST ICIC INTER-CELLINTERFERENCE COORDINATION IE INFORMATION ELEMENT LTE LONG TERM EVOLUTIONLTE-A LONG TERM EVOLUTION ADVANCED MIB MASTER INFORMATION BLOCK NACKNEGATIVE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OFDM ORTHOGONAL FREQUENCY DIVISION MULTIPLEXOFDMA ORTHOGONAL FREQUENCY DIVISION MULTIPLE ACCESS PBCH PHYSICALBROADCAST CHANNEL PCFICH PHYSICAL CONTROL FORMAT INDICATOR CHANNEL PDCCHPHYSICAL DOWNLINK CONTROL CHANNEL PDSCH PHYSICAL DOWNLINK SHARED CHANNELPHICH PHYSICAL HARQ INDICATOR CHANNEL PRB PHYSICAL RESOURCE BLOCK PUSCHPHYSICAL UPLINK SHARED CHANNEL RE RESOURCE ELEMENT REG RESOURCE ELEMENTGROUP TDD TIME DIVISION DUPLEX UE USER EQUIPMENT UL UPLINK

LTE wireless communication systems aim to provide enhanced services bymeans of higher data rates and lower latency with reduced cost. Onebenefit of deploying LTE TDD systems is to enable asymmetric UL-DLallocations in a radio frame. Typically if more data is to be sent inDL, there can be a higher number of DL subframes in a radio frame toaccommodate that greater data volume. In LTE TDD systems, asymmetricresource allocation is realized by providing seven differentsemi-statically configured UL-DL subframe configurations for a givenradio frame, as specified in Table 4.2-2 of 3GPP TS 36.211 v 10.5.0(2012-06) which is extracted below.

TABLE 4.2-2 Uplink-downlink configurations DOWNLINK- UPLINK- TO-UPLINKDOWNLINK SWITCH-POINT SUBFRAME NUMBER CONFIGURATION PERIODICITY 0 1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 0 5 MS D S U U U D S U U U 1 5 MS D S U U D D S U U D 2 5 MSD S U D D D S U D D 3 10 MS  D S U U U D D D D D 4 10 MS  D S U U D D DD D D 5 10 MS  D S U D D D D D D D 6 5 MS D S U U U D S U U D

In the table above, “D” indicates a DL subframe, “U” indicates an ULsubframe and “S” indicates a special subframe. The different UL-DLconfigurations in the table provide between 40% and 90% DL subframes,and in conventional practice the UL-DL configuration in use at an eNB isinformed to the UE (and changed) only via system information on thebroadcast channel. The UL-DL configuration is only configuredsemi-statically and so may not adapt to the instantaneous trafficsituation. This is inefficient in terms of resource utilization,particularly in small cells or cells with a small number of users wherethe traffic situation can often change rapidly.

To address this inefficiency, a flexible TDD configuration study itemfor LTE-A Release 11 (Rel. 11) was completed. Evaluations in the studyitem revealed possibly significant performance benefits by allowing TDDUL-DL reconfiguration based on traffic adaptation in small cells. Thestudies also recommend interference mitigation scheme(s) for systemswith TDD UL-DL reconfiguration.

As with asymmetric UL-DL configuration and flexible TDD allocation,there are several challenges to overcome before any implementation maybe considered viable. One particular challenge is to allowreconfiguration of TDD UL-DL configuration on at most a radio framebasis without significant impact on the current 3GPP specification, andto allow coexistence with legacy (i.e. Rel. 8, 9, 10) UEs. It is thoughtthat improving PHICH resource allocation and maintaining backwardcompatibility may help in this regard.

FIG. 1 shows UE ACK/NACK procedure 100 (PUSCH transmission and PHICHreception) in TDD system. As an example of the LTE timing rulesspecified in Rel. 11 and illustrated in FIG. 1, one DL subframe may havethe responsibility to send HARQ-ACK bits for 0, 1 or 2 UL subframe(s),depending on the adopted TDD configuration and DL subframe index. Forinstance:

-   -   If TDD configuration #0 is used, DL subframe #0 (101) in radio        frame n is responsible for sending HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes        (105), namely UL subframes #3 and #4 in radio frame ‘n−1’, and        DL subframe #1 (102) in radio frame n is responsible for sending        HARQ-ACK for one UL subframe, namely subframe #7 (106) in radio        frame ‘n−1’.    -   If TDD configuration #2 is used, then DL subframe #0 (103) has        no responsibility for sending HARQ-ACK feedback for any UL        transmission and, as a result, there is no PHICH resource        allocation on this DL subframe (103).    -   If TDD configuration #3 is used, then DL subframe #0 (104) is        responsible for sending HARQ-ACK feedback for one UL subframe,        namely subframe #4 (107).    -   etc

The PHICH resource allocation on each DL/Special subframe for each TDDconfiguration is further illustrated in FIG. 2. The factor m_(i) (asgiven by individual entries in the table) indicates how many copies ofPHICH resource are assigned on a given DL subframe in the TDD system.

In Rel. 8, 9, 10 and 11, PDCCH is transmitted on CCE which is made up byREs (or REGs) not occupied by CRS, PCFICH and PHICH. The antenna portfor CRS can be determined by blind decoding of PBCH and REs used forPCFICH are predefined. Although PHICH configuration can be determinedfrom PHICH-Config via PBCH/MIB decoding, nevertheless for TDD systems itis still not sufficient to determine how many REs (or REGs) are used forPHICH. For example, for a configured DL system BW of 10 MHz, assumingNg=1/6, then N_(PHICH) ^(Group)=2, it is still necessary to know thefactor m_(i) which depends on eNB configured UL-DL configuration inorder to further determine the exact number of REs (or REGs) occupied byPHICH resource.

The value of m_(i) is related to TDD configuration and DL subframeindex. As a result, in order to figure out the REs used for PHICH andthus determine the REs (or REGs) that are carrying PDCCH(s), the TDDconfiguration should be determined first. However, TDD configuration istransmitted in SIB1 via PDCCH with an associated PDSCH and the problembecomes tricky because the index of TDD configuration is needed in orderto decode PDCCH with an associated PDSCH which contains the index of TDDconfiguration. This is therefore a “chicken-egg” problem. One way tosolve this problem, as was agreed in the standardization meeting, isthat a UE should perform blind decoding by assuming on a particularsubframe the possible value of m_(i) in order to get the TDDconfiguration, and start to use the detected TDD configuration to decodeother PDCCH.

FIG. 3 shows PDCCH blind decoding and PHICH resource assignment 300. Asillustrated in FIG. 3, for different TDD configurations/DL subframes,the REG available for PDCCH transmission may be different, althoughPHICH configuration PHICH-Config stays the same

-   -   Case 1: No PHICH resource assignment, m_(i)=0 4 REGs (301) are        used for PCFICH transmission, all other REGs can be used for        PDCCH transmission    -   Case 2: PHICH resource assignment for one UL subframe, m_(i)=1        Beside the 4 REGs used for PCFICH transmission, another 6 REGs        (302) are used for PHICH transmission, and the remaining REGs        can be used for PDCCH transmission    -   Case 3: PHICH resource assignment for two UL subframes, m_(i)=2        6 additional REGs are used for PHICH transmission, and the        remaining REGs can be used for PDCCH transmission.

From the above example, it can be appreciated that if a UE has anincorrect understanding of the m_(i) value (which is determined by TDDconfiguration and subframe index), or PHICH resource is not assignedaccording to factor m_(i) known by the UE, then the UE will have anincorrect understanding of CCE to REG mapping and will fail to decodePDCCH.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

In flexible-TDD systems, it is highly likely that the TDD configurationof legacy UEs will not be the same as the TDD configuration used byflexible-TDD UEs. If PHICH resource is assigned to flexible-TDD UEs byfollowing factor m_(i) related to TDD configuration of flexible-TDD UEs,then legacy UEs will have problem in decoding PDCCH. It would bedesirable to maintain backward compatibility in flexible-TDD systemswhile sending HARQ-ACK for UL transmission.

It is to be clearly understood that mere reference herein to previous orexisting apparatus, systems, methods, practices, publications or otherinformation, or to any associated problems or issues, does notconstitute an acknowledgement or admission that any of those thingsindividually or in any combination formed part of the common generalknowledge of those skilled in the field, or that they are admissibleprior art.

Solution to Problem

In one form, the present invention relates broadly to a method for PHICHresource allocation (or a method for resource allocation for thetransmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK feedback) in a wireless communicationsystem that supports a flexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in whichdifferent TDD UL-DL configurations are available and the TDD UL-DLconfiguration used by first UEs which operate according to the flexibleTDD configuration can be different to the TDD UL-DL configuration usedby second UEs which operate according to a long term TDD UL-DLconfiguration, the method comprising allocating PHICH resources for bothfirst UEs and second UEs according to LTE timing rules applicable to theTDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs. Generally, the first UEswill be flexible-TDD UEs (e.g. Rel. 12 & beyond UEs) and the second UEswill be legacy UEs (e.g. Rel. 8, 9, 10 or 11 UEs), and the term ‘firstUEs’ and ‘second UEs’ may be understood accordingly in the followingdescription.

In the form of the invention described in the previous paragraph, themethod may also include, determining that PHICH resource is allocatedfor second UEs with factor m_(i)=2, determining that HARQ-ACK for onlyone UL subframe should be fed back for first UEs, and allocating PHICHresource with I_(PHICH)=1 for first UEs. The method may further includedetermining that PHICH resource is assigned for second UEs with factorm_(i)=1, determining that HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes should be fedback, and allocating the assigned PHICH resource with I_(PHICH)=1 forfirst UEs to accommodate PUSCH HARQ feedback for the second subframe.

In another form, the present invention relates broadly to a method forPHICH resource allocation (or a method for resource allocation for thetransmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK feedback) in a wireless communicationsystem that supports a flexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in whichdifferent TDD UL-DL configurations are available and the TDD UL-DLconfiguration used by first UEs which operate according to the flexibleTDD configuration can be different to the TDD UL-DL configuration usedby second UEs which operate according to a long term TDD UL-DLconfiguration, the method involving, for a given subframe of a radioframe:

determining that the subframe is not a DL subframe in both the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by first UEs and the TDD UL-DL configuration in useby second UEs,

determining that the subframe is a DL subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by first UEs but an UL subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use second UEs, and

allocating PHICH resource according to LTE timing rules applicable tothe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs.

In the form of the invention described in the previous paragraph, themethod may also include, determining that said given subframe is a DLsubframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs and also inthe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs, determining that aPHICH resource is not required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use)by second UEs for said subframe, and allocating no PHICH resource to thesubframe. The method may further include, for said subframe, determiningthat a PHICH resource is required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration inuse) by first UEs, calculating the PHICH resource required for sendingPUSCH HARQ-ACK or remaining PUSCH HARQ-ACK, and allocating the PHICHresource for transmission thereof via ePHICH IE if available and enabledor via UL grant if ePHICH IE is not available or not enabled.

The method may further include determining that a PHICH resource isrequired (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by second UEs for saidgiven subframe, determining that PHICH resource is not required (in theTDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs, and allocating the PHICHresource according to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by second UEs.

The method may further include determining that a PHICH resource isrequired (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs for saidsubframe, determining that the PHICH resource required (in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use) by second UEs is not less than that required (inthe TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs, determining that thePHICH resource required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) bysecond UEs is not more than that required (in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use) by first UEs, and allocating the PHICH resourceaccording to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by second UEs.

The method may further include determining that the PHICH resourcerequired (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by second UEs in saidsubframe is more than that required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration inuse) by first UEs for said given subframe, allocating PHICH resourceaccording to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by second UEs, and allocating PHICH resource withI_(PHICH)=1 for first UEs.

The method may further include determining that the PHICH resourcerequired (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by second UEs in saidsubframe is less than that required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration inuse) by first UEs, allocating the PHICH resource according to the LTEtiming rules applicable to the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by secondUEs, and allocating the PHICH resource for first UEs to accommodateHARQ-ACK for associated UL subframe(s) that have PUSCH HARQ-ACK timingaligned with that of second UEs.

The method may further include, for said given subframe, calculating thePHICH resource required for sending PUSCH HARQ-ACK or remaining PUSCHHARQ-ACK of first UEs, and allocating PHICH resource for transmissionthereof via ePHICH IE if this is available and enabled or via UL grantif ePHICH IE is not available or not enabled.

In another form, the present invention relates broadly to a wirelesscommunication system including a base station, first UEs and second UEs,wherein the wireless communication system supports a flexible TDD UL-DLconfiguration, different TDD UL-DL configurations are available and theTDD UL-DL configuration used by the first UEs which operate according tothe flexible TDD configuration can be different to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration used by the second UEs which operate according to a longterm TDD UL-DL configuration, and wherein the base station is operableto perform the method for PHICH resource allocation as described in thevarious forms of the invention above.

In another form, the present invention relates broadly to a base stationoperable for use in a wireless communication system that supports aflexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in which different TDD UL-DLconfigurations are available and the TDD UL-DL configuration used byfirst UEs which operate according to the flexible TDD configuration canbe different to the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs whichoperate according to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration, and whereinthe base station is operable to perform a method as described in thevarious method forms of the invention above.

In another form, the present invention relates broadly to a method foruse by first UEs for PUSCH HARQ-ACK and PHICH signalling (or a methodfor reception of PUSCH HARQ-ACK for use by UEs) in a wirelesscommunication system that supports flexible TDD UL-DL configuration andin which different TDD UL-DL configurations are available and the TDDUL-DL configuration used by the first UEs which operate according to theflexible TDD configuration can be different to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration used by second UEs which operate according to a long termTDD UL-DL configuration, the method involving, for a given flexible DLsubframe of a radio frame in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by thefirst UEs:

determining that the corresponding subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the second UEs is not a DL subframe,

determining that the given DL subframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration inuse by the first UEs is to carry PUSCH HARQ-ACK, and

monitoring for PHICH allocation according to LTE timing rules applicableto the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs.

In the form of the invention described in the previous paragraph, themethod may further include, determining that the corresponding subframein the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by the second UEs is a DLsubframe, determining that said corresponding subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the second UEs is not allocated PHICH resourceaccording to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the second UEs, determining that the given DLsubframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by the first UEs is tocarry PUSCH HARQ-ACK, and performing the following on the subframe:

UL grant monitoring for HARQ-ACK corresponding to previously sent PUSCH,if ePHICH is not configured;

ePHICH monitoring for HARQ-ACK corresponding to previously sent PUSCH,if ePHICH is configured; and

PDCCH(s) monitoring taking into account the number of REs allocated forPHICH for second UEs.

The method may further include, for the given flexible DL subframe,determining that said corresponding subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the second UEs is allocated PHICH resourceaccording to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the second UEs, determining that the PHICHresource required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by second UEsis not less than that required (in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use)by first UEs, determining that the PHICH resource required (in the TDDUL-DL configuration in use) by second UEs is not more than that required(in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs, and performingPHICH monitoring according to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDDUL-DL configuration in use by second UEs and performing PDCCH(s)monitoring taking into account the number of REs allocated for PHICH forsecond UEs.

The method may further include, for the given flexible DL subframe,determining that the PHICH resource required (in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use) by second UEs is more than that required (in theTDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs, and performing PHICHmonitoring with I_(PHICH)=1 and performing PDCCH(s) monitoring takinginto account the number of REs allocated for PHICH for second UEs.

The method may further include, for the given flexible DL subframe,determining that the PHICH resource required (in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use) by second UEs is less than that required (in theTDD UL-DL configuration in use) by first UEs, and performing on thesubframe:

PHICH monitoring for HARQ-ACK of associated UL subframe(s) having PUSCHHARQ-ACK timing aligned with that of the TDD UL-DL configuration in useby second UEs,

UL grant monitoring for HARQ-ACK of associated UL subframe(s) thatis/are not included in the PHICH of second UEs, if ePHICH is notconfigured,

ePHICH monitoring for HARQ-ACK of associated UL subframe(s) that is/arenot included in the PHICH of second UEs, if ePHICH is configured,

PDCCH(s) monitoring taking into account the number of REs allocated forPHICH for second UEs.

In another form, the invention relates broadly to a mobile stationoperable for use as a first UE in a wireless communication system thatsupports a flexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in which different TDDUL-DL configurations are available and the TDD UL-DL configuration usedby first UEs which operate according to the flexible TDD configurationcan be different to the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs whichoperate according to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration, and whereinthe mobile station is operable to perform the method for PUSCH HARQ-ACKand PHICH signalling for use by first UEs as described above.

In another form, the invention relates broadly to a method for use inePHICH mapping in a wireless communication system that supports aflexible TDD UL-DL configuration and in which different TDD UL-DLconfigurations are available and the TDD UL-DL configuration used byfirst UEs which operate according to the flexible TDD configuration canbe different to the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs whichoperate according to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration, the methodcomprising using a subset of spare bits out of a set of spare bits in amaster information block (MIB) for ePHICH configuration. Preferably, themethod comprises using three out of ten spare bits in a MIB for ePHICHconfiguration.

Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combinationwith any one or more of the other features described herein within thescope of the invention.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a flexibleTDD wireless communication systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may bediscerned from the following Detailed Description which providessufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform theinvention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limitingthe scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. TheDetailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings asfollows:

FIG. 1 illustrates UE ACK/NACK procedure (PUSCH transmission and PHICHreception) in a TDD system. In other words, FIG. 1 helps to illustratethe operation of the LTE timing rules for PUSCH HARQ-ACK feedbackaccording to TDD UL-DL configuration and subframe number.

FIG. 2 contains a table with the factor m_(i) for different subframes indifferent UL-DL configurations.

FIG. 3 contains three illustrations corresponding to the example givenwith reference to Case 1, Case 2 and Case 3 respectively in theBackground section above.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a flexible-TDD wirelesscommunication system.

FIG. 5 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 6 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 7 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 8 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 9 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 10 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 11 contains illustrations corresponding to different examplesituations which are used to explain the operation of the invention (orat least embodiments of the invention) in such situations.

FIG. 12A contains a flow chart illustrating a method for resourceallocation for the transmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK feedback according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12B contains the flow chart illustrating a method for resourceallocation for the transmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK feedback according toan embodiment of the invention.

The method represented by the flow chart in FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B may beperformed by a base station/eNB.

FIG. 13A contains a flow chart illustrating a method for the receptionof PUSCH HARQ-ACK which may be used by UEs that operate according to theflexible TDD configuration (i.e. by first UEs such as, e.g., Rel. 12 &beyond UEs) according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13B contains the flow chart illustrating a method for the receptionof PUSCH HARQ-ACK which may be used by UEs that operate according to theflexible TDD configuration (i.e. by first UEs such as, e.g., Rel. 12 &beyond UEs) according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 helps to illustrate/explain a method for use in ePHICH mapping.

FIG. 15 helps to illustrate/explain a method for use in ePHICH mapping.

FIG. 16 helps to illustrate/explain a method for use in ePHICH mapping.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Explanations will hereafter be given with reference to, and in thecontext of, wireless communication systems that support Flexible-TDDUL-DL configuration, an example of which is shown schematically in FIG.4. The wireless communication system (400) depicted in FIG. 4 consistsof a Rel. 12 & beyond eNB (401) which is backward compatible withprevious releases such as Rel. 8, Rel. 9, Rel. 10 and Rel. 11. The eNB(401) provides wireless connectivity, network access and coverage forsecond/legacy UE(s) (403) as well as Rel. 12 & and beyond (i.e. “first”)UE(s) (404). The eNB (401) further has a “TDD reconfigurationprocessing” function (402) which takes the UL-DL traffic ratio observedin unrestricted timeframe into consideration when it performs a TDDconfiguration switching algorithm for the selection of appropriate longterm and short term TDD UL-DL configuration for legacy UE(s) (403) andRel. 12 & beyond UE(s) (404) respectively, and a “PHICH resource mappingand HARQ feedback” function (402BIS) which takes into consideration theexistence of legacy UE(s) operating within eNB (401) coverage andassigns PHICH resource that ensures no impact on legacy UE performance.

The eNB (401) will broadcast long term “TDD UL-DL configuration” to bothlegacy UE(s) (403) and Rel. 12 & beyond UE(s) using SIB1 (SystemInformation Block type 1) (406). The TDD UL-DL configuration transmittedon SIB1 is considered “long term” configuration as the period for SIB1update is the order of 640 ms. The eNB (401) will also communicate“short term” TDD UL-DL configuration but only to Rel. 12 & beyond UE(s)(404) using a fast signalling approach and the period for TDD UL-DLconfiguration update can be as little as 10 ms (i.e. radio frame basis).The eNB (401) will also transmit PHICHs on subframes that are determinedby the “PHICH resource mapping and HARQ feedback” function (402BIS).

In addition to performing the reception and use of TDD UL-DLconfiguration broadcasted on SIB1, a Rel. 12 & beyond UE(s) (404) thatoperates within coverage of Rel. 12 & beyond eNB (401) will furthercomprise TDD reconfiguration processing function (405) which detectsshort term UL-DL configuration information (407). This function (405)will also perform PDSCH H-ARQ encoding and selection of the appropriateUL subframe(s) for sending PDSCH H-ARQ feedback to eNB (401). Thisfunction (405) will also perform the determination of DL subframe onwhich it will monitor for its UL grant for the transmission of UL-SCH.The function (405) further includes function (405BIS) which determinesthe required PHICH resource and DL subframe on which it will receiveH-ARQ-ACK corresponding to UL-SCH that it sends in previously grantedUL-subframe(s) using configured PHICH resource or/and UL grant orconfigured ePHICH resource.

For legacy UE(s) (403) operating within the Rel. 12 & beyond eNB (401)range, it/these shall use TDD UL-DL configuration broadcasted on SIB1and operate according to the legacy specifications that it/they compliesto. The eNB (401) may not schedule legacy UE(s) (403) to performreception of PDSCH(s) or transmission of PUSCH(s) on the “flexiblesubframes”.

Embodiments of the invention may concern, inter alia, one or more of amethod for PHICH/ePHICH resource allocation and in particular fordetermining appropriate physical resources including PHICH, UL Grant,and ePHICH for sending of PUSCH HARQ-ACK (408), a procedure that may beimplemented as eNB's PHICH resource mapping and HARQ feedback function(402BIS) for the correct selection of physical resources for thetransmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK ensuring no impact on legacy UE operatingwithin eNB (401) coverage, and a procedure that may be implemented asthe Rel. 12 & beyond UE PHICH information processing function (405BIS)for the correct reception PUSCH HARQ-ACK and processing of PHICH. FIG. 4also shows PUCCH/PUSCH carries HARQ-ACK feedback for PDSCH or PDCCHindication SPS release (409).

Reference Configuration Selection for UL-SCH HARQ Timing

As legacy UE(s) have no knowledge of the Flexible-TDD system in use,PHICH resource assignment in embodiments of the invention will generallyfollow the TDD configuration used by legacy UE(s), at least on fixed DLsubframes. This may help to ensure that there is no performance impacton legacy UE(s) with regard to the reception of PHICH(s) and PDCCH(s)intended for it/them.

For example, in FIG. 5 (FIG. 5 shows resource assignment 500),configuration #3 is configured for legacy UE(s) and by following the LTEtiming rules for configuration #3, the HARQ-ACK bits for UL subframe #4(501) in radio frame #n is transmitted on DL subframe #0 (502) in radioframe #(n+1). Simultaneously, there exists a flexible-TDD UE withconfiguration #0. By following the Rel. 8 LTE timing rule forconfiguration #0, DL subframe #0 (502) in radio frame #(n+1) isconfigured to transmit HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes, namely subframes#3 (503) and #4 (504) in radio frame #n for flexible-TDD UE. If factorm_(i)=2 is used for PHICH resource assignment to accommodate HARQ-ACKfor the two UL subframes (subframes #3 and #4), then more REGs should beoccupied by PHICH(s) and more importantly, this is unknown to the legacyUE which is configured with UL-DL configuration #3. As a result, thelegacy UE will include REGs used for additional PHICH Group(s) in thePDCCH blind decoding process and will never succeed in PDCCH blinddecoding intended for it.

Therefore, if the PHICH resource required for the legacy system (i.e.required by legacy UEs) is less than that for the concurrentflexible-TDD system (flexible TDD UEs), no more PHICH resource isassigned by the eNB, and the eNB should decide how the existing PHICHresource can be used by flexible-TDD UE in the manner discussed below.

Referring to FIG. 6 (FIG. 6 shows resource assignment 600), the legacyUE is configured with configuration #5 and the flexible-TDD UE isconfigured with configuration #0. According to the Rel. 8 LTE timingrule for UL-DL configuration #5, for legacy UE, DL subframe #0 (603) isnot allocated for HARQ-ACK transmission for any UL transmission usingPHICH resource. For flexible-TDD UE though, if the LTE timing rule ofUL-DL configuration #0 is followed, then DL subframe #0 should beconfigured for sending HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes, namely subframe #3(601) and subframe #4 (602). This would cause the legacy UE to miss itsintended PDCCH(s) decoding because it understands that no PHICH RE(s)are allocated on the current subframe. Therefore, in order to achievebackward compatibility, no PHICH resource is assigned on PDCCH regionfor the flexible-TDD UE.

Thus, there is no PHICH resource assignment even when flexible TDD UEsrequire it. In this case, the eNB should send ACK/NACK in the mannerdiscussed below and the flexible TDD UE should be aware of the method tobe used.

Referring now to FIG. 7 (FIG. 7 shows resource assignment 700), asanother example, the legacy UE is configured with TDD UL-DLconfiguration #0 and flexible-TDD UE is configured with TDD UL-DLconfiguration #4. It is possible that the transmission direction ofsubframe #4 (702) follows the direction of the flexible-TDD system andis used as DL subframe (704), however, PHICH resource for subframe #4(702) is still assigned in subframe #0 (705) according to timing rule ofUL-DL configuration #0 to guarantee no impact on legacy UE PDCCHdecoding (Subframe #3 (701) is same as subframe #3 (601).). Furthermore,since the UL HARQ-ACK for UL transmission of the flexible-TDD UE in ULsubframe #3 (703) is transmitted in DL subframe #9 by following thetiming rule defined for UL-DL configuration #4, PHICH resource for ULsubframe #3 in DL subframe #0 (705) is over allocated in order tomaintain backward compatibility i.e. allowing the legacy UE to correctlyperforming PDCCH(s) intended for its use. Thus, the PHICH resource isreserved for the legacy system even when there is no UL transmission onthe associated subframe.

PHICH Resource Selection for Flexible-TDD UE with PHICH ResourceAssigned According to Factor m_(i)=2

In FIG. 8 (FIG. 8 shows resource assignment 800), the legacy UE isconfigured with TDD UL-DL configuration #0 and the flexible-TDD UE isconfigured with UL-DL configuration #6. By following the LTE timing ruledefined for UL-DL configuration #0, the factor m_(i)=2 is used for PHICHresource assignment and HARQ-ACK for UL subframe #3 (801) and ULsubframe #4 (802) in radio frame #n are send on DL subframe #0 (803) inradio frame # (n+1). In this example, DL subframe #0 (803) in radioframe # (n+1) may also be responsible to send HARQ-ACK for one ULsubframe, namely #4 (804) in radio frame #n by following timing ruledefined for UL-DL configuration #6. As there are two copies of PHICHresource assigned by factor m_(i)=2, which of the copies of PHICHresource is allocated and used by flexible-TDD UEs should be decided andunderstood by flexible TDD UEs.

The straight forward solution in this case is to use PHICH resourcerelated to I_(PHICH)=0. However, legacy UE on UL subframe #3 andflexible-TDD UE on UL subframe #4 both can have the same first PRB(Physical Resource Block) for UL transmission and the probability ofPHICH collision may be increased. Instead of that, using PHICH resourcerelated to I_(PHICH)=1 for flexible TDD UE may be more promising sincelegacy UE and flexible-TDD UE on the same UL subframe cannot use thesame first PRB for UL transmission and thus PHICH collision can be morecontrollable.

In reference to FIG. 9 (FIG. 9 shows resource assignment 900) as anotherexample, the legacy UEs use the same configuration #0 and the sameparameters for PHICH resource assignment as in FIG. 8. Flexible-TDD UEsare configured with TDD configuration #1 and follow a referenceconfiguration #0 for HARQ-ACK timing. As a result, the HARQ-ACK for ULsubframe #3 (904) in radio frame #n is sent on DL subframe #0 (903) inradio frame #(n+1) rather than on DL subframe #9 (905) in radio frame#n. Similar to the example depicted in FIG. 8, as there are two copiesof PHICH resource assigned by factor m_(i)=2, the copy of PHICH resourceallocated to and used by flexible-TDD UEs should be decided andunderstood by the flexible TDD UEs.

The first option is that PHICH resource related to I_(PHICH)=0 should beused by flexible-TDD UEs because the same first PRB index cannot be usedby two UEs on the same UL subframe. However, it is worth mentioningthat, for example, subframe #4 (902) in radio frame #n has higher chancethan subframe #3 (901) in radio frame #n of being configured as a DLsubframe by flexible-TDD system and thus the PHICH resources assignedfor I_(PHICH)=1 are never used by legacy UE. From the perspective ofalleviating PHICH resource collision, it may therefore be beneficial tomap HARQ-ACK of UL subframe #3 (904) of flexible-TDD UE to PHICHresource related to I_(PHICH)=1 (the second copy of PHICH resource, asillustrated in (303) of FIG. 3). FIG. 9 also shows subframe #4 (906).

Therefore, feedback HARQ-ACK on PHICH resource associated withI_(PHICH)=1 can be served as a unified solution for different cases.Otherwise, case specific solutions need to be applied.

HARQ-ACK Transmission for UL Transmission in DL Subframe with PHICHResource Assigned According to Factor m_(i)=1 and Flexible-TDD UEHARQ-ACK Feedback for Two UL Subframes

In reference to FIG. 10 (FIG. 10 shows resource assignment 1000),Flexible-TDD UE should feedback HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes: subframe#3 (1001) and subframe #4 (1002) in radio frame #n, and PHICH resourceis assigned according to factor m_(i)=1 to ensure backwardcompatibility. The HARQ-ACK of only one UL subframe is allowed fortransmission on PHICH, but there is a need for HARQ-ACK of two ULsubframes to be transmitted. It would be more promising to send HARQ-ACKfor UL subframe #4 (1002) in radio frame #n rather than UL subframe #3(1001) in radio frame #n for the sake of not increasing the probabilityof PHICH resource collision. The HARQ-ACK for the remaining UL subframethat cannot be transmitted using the reference configuration (e.g.subframe #3 (1001) in radio frame #n), can be transmitted via UL grantor ePHICH in the same subframe. The HARQ-ACK for UL subframe #4 (1004)in radio frame #n is sent on DL subframe #0 (1003) in radio frame#(n+1).

UL-HARQ Feedback in One DL Subframe without PHICH Resource forFlexible-TDD System

In reference to FIG. 11 (FIG. 11 shows resource assignment 1100), thereis no PHICH resource assignment on DL subframe #0 (1103) in radio frame#(n+1) by following the timing rule defined for UL-DL configuration #1configured for legacy UE, but flexible-TDD system with the configuredUL-DL configuration #0 needs to feedback HARQ-ACK for one/two ULsubframe(s). In this case, the HARQ-ACK can be sent via UL grantimplicitly, or on ePHICH explicitly. DL subframe #0 should be configuredfor sending HARQ-ACK for two UL subframes, namely subframe #3 (1101) andsubframe #4 (1102) in FIG. 11. FIG. 11 also shows subframe #2 (1104).

Thus, an illustration of the procedure which may be implemented within abase station such as eNB (401) in FIG. 4 as “eNB's PHICH resourcemapping and HARQ feedback” function (402BIS) for the correct selectionof physical resources for the transmission of PUSCH HARQ-ACK ensuring noimpact on legacy UE operating within eNB (401) coverage is given in theflowchart in FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B.

Similarly, a corresponding procedure which may be implemented at/in amobile station (UE) such as Rel. 12 & beyond UE (404) in FIG. 4 as “Rel.12 & beyond (i.e. first) UE PHICH information processing function(405BIS) for the correct reception PUSCH HARQ-ACK and processing ofPHICH is given in the flowchart shown in FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B.

Following on from the embodiments of the invention discussed above, arelated issue concerns the design of ePHICH resource mapping. Inparticular, it may be possible for ePHICH to be implemented using abackward compatible carrier where PDCCH region/PHICH is still reservedfor legacy UE. In this regard, 3-bits in MIB may be used to indicate thesemi-static ePHICH configuration in Rel. 11. Hence, if ePHICH and PHICHcan be configured at the same time, 3-bits out of 10 spare bits in MIBcan be used to indicate the ePHICH configuration. The N(group, PHICH)calculation, modulation and coding method may be reused.

The mapping of ePHICH on PRB is unknown to the legacy UE, and thereforethe legacy UE should not be scheduled on PRB used for ePHICHtransmission, otherwise, the performance of PDSCH will degrade. Also,for the sake of reducing the scheduling limitation of legacy UE andfrequency domain ICIC, ePHICH should be assigned on a limited number ofPRBs. On the other hand, ePHICH should also be distributed across DLbandwidth in order to achieve frequency diversity gain. Therefore amapping method similar to Rel. 11 can be adopted.

Described below are about 11 steps for ePHICH resource mapping. For thepurposes of explanation, letz ^((p))(i)=

{tilde over (y)} ^((p))(4i),{tilde over (y)} ^((p))(4i+1),{tilde over(y)} ^((p))(4i+2),{tilde over (y)} ^((p))(4i+3)

(i=0,1,2)  (1):denote symbol quadruplet i for antenna port p. Mapping to resourceelements may be defined in terms of symbol quadruplets according to thefollowing steps:

1. Mapping of REG

Four consecutive REs in PRBs used for ePHICH but not used for DM-RS,CSI-RS or CRS form one REG.

In reference to FIG. 14 (FIG. 14 shows mapping 1400), CRS is configured,and accordingly there are two REGs (1401) and (1402) in OFDM symbol #4,two REGs (1403) and (1404) in OFDM symbol #7 and two REGs (1405) and(1406) in OFDM symbol #11. There are therefore a total of 6 REGs in onePRB for ePHICH (i.e. N_(RB) ^(eREG)=6) with the presence of CRS.

In reference to FIG. 15 (FIG. 15 shows mapping 1500), CRS is notconfigured, and accordingly there are 3 REGs (1501), (1502) and (1503)in OFDM symbol #4, 3 REGs (1504), (1505) and (1506) in OFDM symbol #7and 3 REGs (1507), (1508) and (1509) in OFDM symbol #11. There aretherefore a total of 9 REGs in one PRB for ePHICH (i.e. N_(RB)^(eREG)=9) without the presence of CRS.

For special subframe, because of the limited number of DL symbols on DLsubframe, ePHICH is mapped to OFDMA symbol #4, #7, #8 rather than #4,#7, #11 in normal DL subframe. The mapping pattern is similar to OFDMA#4 and #7 (with only two REGs on one OFDMA symbol of one PRB when CRS isconfigured), although CRS is not configured on OFDMA symbol #8.

2. Determine the PRBs used for ePHICH

Based on PHICH configuration (and additional parameter m_(i) in TDDsystem) and the value of N_(RB) ^(eREG), the UE can determine the numberof PRB used for PHICH, and the calculation of PRB number for ePHICH canbe expressed as follows:N _(ePHICH) ^(RB)=3┌N _(ePHICH) ^(group) /N _(RB) ^(eREG)┐  (2):

For example, assuming, N_(g)=2, N_(RB) ^(DL)=6, based on

$\begin{matrix}{N_{PHICH}^{group} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}\left\lceil {N_{g}\left( {N_{RB}^{DL}/8} \right)} \right\rceil \\{2 \cdot \left\lceil {N_{g}\left( {N_{RB}^{DL}/8} \right)} \right\rceil}\end{matrix} \right.} & (3) \\{N_{ePHICH}^{group} = {\left\lceil {N_{g}\left( {N_{RB}^{DL}/8} \right)} \right\rceil = {{2 \cdot \left\lceil \left( {6/8} \right) \right\rceil} = 2}}} & (4)\end{matrix}$(In the equation (3), the upper is for normal cyclic prefix, and thelower is for extended cyclic prefix.)

One ePHICH group takes 12 RE=3 REGs.

If CRS is configured, one PRB can provide 6 eREG for ePHICH and eREGbelongs to the same PRB cannot be assigned to the same ePHICH group inorder to achieve diversity gain. As a result, at least 3 PRBs areneeded.

3. Determine the location of PRBs for ePHICH

As mentioned above, PRBs used for ePHICH should be distributed on DLbandwidth in order to achieve frequency diversity gain. The location ofPRB for ePHICH also depends on a cell-specific value offset_(cell-x)^(PRB) in order to achieve frequency domain ICIC. The index of PRB usedby cell-x for ePHICH can be determined by

$\begin{matrix}{\left\{ {{{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{PRB} + j},{{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{PRB} + j + \frac{N_{RB}^{DL}}{3}},{{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{PRB} + j + \frac{2 \cdot N_{RB}^{DL}}{3}}} \right\},\mspace{20mu}{j = {0\mspace{14mu}\ldots\mspace{14mu}\frac{N_{ePHICH}^{RB}}{3}}}} & (5)\end{matrix}$

In reference to FIG. 16 (FIG. 16 shows mapping 1600), assumingN_(ePHICH) ^(RB)=3, N_(RB) ^(DL)=6 and offset_(cell-x) ^(PRB)=0, thenthe PRB indexes for these 3 PRBs are {0 (1601), 2 (1602), 4 (1603)}respectively.

4. Indexing REG for ePHICH

Let n_(1′) denote the number of resource element groups for ePHICH inOFDM symbol 1′.

Number the resource-element groups not assigned to PCFICH in OFDM symbol1′ from 0 to n_(1′)−1, starting from the resource-element group with thelowest frequency-domain index.

5. Initialize m′=0 (PHICH mapping unit number)

6. For each value of i=0, 1, 2

7. Symbol-quadruplet z^((p))(i) from ePHICH mapping unit m′ is mapped tothe resource-element group represented by (k′,l′)_(i) where the indicesk_(i)′ and l_(i)′ are given by steps 8 and 9 below:

8. The time-domain index l_(i)′ is given by

$\begin{matrix}{l_{i}^{\prime} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}{4\left( {{\overset{\_}{l}}_{i} = 0} \right)} \\{7\left( {{\overset{\_}{l}}_{i} = 1} \right)} \\{8\mspace{14mu}{or}\mspace{14mu} 11\left( {{\overset{\_}{l}}_{i} = 2} \right)}\end{matrix} \right.} & (6) \\{{\overset{\_}{l}}_{i} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}{\left( {{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{sym} + m^{\prime}} \right){mod}\; 3} \\{\left( {{\left( {{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{sym} + m^{\prime}} \right){mod}\; 3} + i} \right){mod}\; 3}\end{matrix} \right.} & (7)\end{matrix}$(In the equation (6), when l_(i)′ equals 8 or 11, for special subframel_(i)′ equals 8, and for normal subframe l_(i)′ equals 11. In theequation (7), the upper is for normal PHICH duration, all subframes, andthe lower is for otherwise (Extended duration).

and offset_(cell-x) ^(sym) is the time domain offset of ePHICH resourcefor cell-x.

9. Set the frequency-domain index k_(i)′ to the resource-element groupassigned the numbern _(i)  (8):

in step 4 above, where the number (8) is given by

$\begin{matrix}{{\overset{\_}{n}}_{i} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}{\left( {{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{freq} + \left\lfloor {m^{\prime}/3} \right\rfloor} \right){mod}\;{n_{l_{i}^{\prime}}\left( {i = 0} \right)}} \\{\left( {{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{freq} + \left\lfloor {m^{\prime}/3} \right\rfloor + \left\lfloor {n_{l_{i}^{\prime}}/3} \right\rfloor} \right){mod}\;{n_{l_{i}^{\prime}}\left( {i = 1} \right)}} \\{\left( {{offset}_{{cell} - x}^{freq} + \left\lfloor {m^{\prime}/3} \right\rfloor + \left\lfloor {2\;{n_{l_{i}^{\prime}}/3}} \right\rfloor} \right){mod}\;{n_{l_{i}^{\prime}}\left( {i = 2} \right)}}\end{matrix} \right.} & (9)\end{matrix}$

and, offset_(cell-x) ^(sym) is the frequency domain offset of ePHICHresource for cell-x.

In reference to FIG. 16, assuming offset_(cell-x) ^(sym)=0 andoffset_(cell-x) ^(freq)=0

If normal duration is configured

REG #0 (1604), REG #2 (1610) and REG #4 (1616) in OFDMA symbol #4 areused for ePHICH group #0.

REG #0 (1605), REG #2 (1611) and REG #4 (1617) in OFDMA symbol #7 areused for ePHICH group #1.

Cell withoffset_(cell-y) ^(sym)≠0  (10):oroffset_(cell-y) ^(freq)≠0  (11):

can use other REGs, for instance.

If offset_(cell-y) ^(sym)=0 and offset_(cell-y) ^(freq)=1 is configuredfor cell-y

REG #1 (1609), REG #3 (1615) and REG #5 (1621) in OFDMA symbol #4 areused for ePHICH group #0.

REG #1 (1608), REG #3 (1614) and REG #5 (1620) in OFDMA symbol #7 areused for ePHICH group #1.

If extended duration is configured

REG #0 (1604) in OFDMA symbol #4, REG #2 (1611) in OFDMA symbol #7 andREG #4 (1618) in OFDMA symbol #11 are used for ePHICH group #0.

REG #0 (1605) in OFDMA symbol #7, REG #2 (1612) in OFDMA symbol #11 andREG #4 (1616) in OFDMA symbol #4 are used for ePHICH group #0.

Similarly, for Cell withoffset_(cell-x) ^(sym)≠0  (12):oroffset_(cell-x) ^(freq)≠0  (13):

can used other REGs for ePHICH.

FIG. 16 also shows REG #0 (1606), REG #1 (1607), REG #3 (1613) and REG#5 (1619).

10. Increase m′ by 1.

11. Repeat from step 5 until all PHICH mapping units have been assigned.

In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each ofthe stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or morefurther integers.

Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘anembodiment’ (or ‘one aspect’ or ‘an aspect’) means that a particularfeature, function, structure, or characteristic described in connectionwith the embodiment (or aspect) is included in at least one embodiment(or aspects) of the present invention. Thus, for example, the appearanceof the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in variousplaces throughout this specification are not necessarily all referringto the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, functions,structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner inone or more combinations.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described inlanguage more or less specific to structural or methodical features. Itis to be understood that the invention is not limited to specificfeatures shown or described since the means herein described comprisespreferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is,therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within theproper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpretedby those skilled in the art.

The above-mentioned processing may be executed by a computer. Also, itis possible to provide a computer program which causes a programmablecomputer device to execute the above-mentioned processing. The programcan be stored and provided to a computer using any type ofnon-transitory computer readable media. Non-transitory computer readablemedia include any type of tangible storage media. Examples ofnon-transitory computer readable media include magnetic storage media(such as floppy disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives, etc.), opticalmagnetic storage media (e.g. magneto-optical disks), CD-ROM, CD-R,CD-R/W, and semiconductor memories (such as mask ROM, PROM (ProgrammableROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (Random Access Memory),etc.). The software modules may be provided to a computer using any typeof transitory computer readable media. Examples of transitory computerreadable media include electric signals, optical signals, andelectromagnetic waves. Transitory computer readable media can providethe software modules to a computer via a wired communication line (e.g.electric wires, and optical fibers) or a wireless communication line.

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority fromAustralian provisional patent application No. 2013900937, filed on Mar.18, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirelyby reference.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   100 UE ACK/NACK PROCEDURE-   101 DL SUBFRAME #0-   102 DL SUBFRAME #1-   103 DL SUBFRAME #0-   104 DL SUBFRAME #0-   105 TWO UL SUBFRAMES-   106 SUBFRAME #7-   107 SUBFRAME #4-   300 PHICH RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   301 4 REGs-   302 6 REGs-   303 SECOND COPY OF PHICH RESOURCE-   400 WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM-   401 eNB-   402 “TDD RECONFIGURATION PROCESSING” FUNCTION-   402BIS “PHICH RESOURCE MAPPING AND HARQ FEEDBACK” FUNCTION-   403 LEGACY UE(S)-   404 REL. 12 & BEYOND UE(S)-   405 TDD RECONFIGURATION PROCESSING FUNCTION-   405BIS PHICH INFORMATION PROCESSING FUNCTION-   406 SIB1-   407 UL-DL CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-   408 PUSCH HARQ-ACK-   409 HARQ-ACK FEEDBACK FOR PDSCH OR PDCCH INDICATION SPS RELEASE-   500 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   501 UL SUBFRAME #4-   502 DL SUBFRAME #0-   503 SUBFRAME #3-   504 SUBFRAME #4-   600 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   601 SUBFRAME #3-   602 SUBFRAME #4-   603 DL SUBFRAME #0-   700 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   701 SUBFRAME #3-   702 SUBFRAME #4-   703 UL SUBFRAME #3-   704 DL SUBFRAME-   705 SUBFRAME #0-   800 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   801 UL SUBFRAME #3-   802 UL SUBFRAME #4-   803 DL SUBFRAME #0-   804 UL SUBFRAME #4-   900 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   901 SUBFRAME #3-   902 SUBFRAME #4-   903 DL SUBFRAME #0-   904 UL SUBFRAME #3-   905 DL SUBFRAME #9-   906 SUBFRAME #4-   1000 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   1001 SUBFRAME #3-   1002 SUBFRAME #4-   1003 DL SUBFRAME #0-   1004 UL SUBFRAME #4-   1100 RESOURCE ASSIGNMENT-   1101 SUBFRAME #3-   1102 SUBFRAME #4-   1103 DL SUBFRAME #0-   1104 SUBFRAME #2-   1400 MAPPING-   1401 to 1406 TWO REGS-   1500 MAPPING-   1501 to 1509 3 REGS-   1600 MAPPING-   1601 to 1603 PRB INDEX-   1604 to 1606 REG #0-   1607 to 1609 REG #1-   1610 to 1612 REG #2-   1613 to 1615 REG #3-   1616 to 1618 REG #4-   1619 to 1621 REG #5

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for PHICH (Physical H-ARQIndicator Channel) resource allocation in a wireless communicationsystem that supports a flexible TDD UL-DL (Time Division DuplexUplink-Downlink) configuration and in which different TDD UL-DLconfigurations are available and the TDD UL-DL configuration used byfirst UEs (User Equipments) which operate according to the flexible TDDconfiguration can be different from the TDD UL-DL configuration used bysecond UEs which operate according to a long term TDD UL-DLconfiguration, the method involving, for a given subframe of a radioframe, determining whether a first condition is fulfilled, wherein thefirst condition specifies that the said subframe is not a DL subframe inboth the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs and in the TDDUL-DL configuration in use by second UEs, determining whether a secondcondition is fulfilled, wherein the second condition specifies that thesaid subframe is a DL subframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use byfirst UEs and an UL subframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use bysecond UEs, and allocating a PHICH resource based on determining thatboth of the first condition and the second condition are fulfilled,according to LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DL configurationin use by first UEs.
 2. The method for PHICH resource allocation asclaimed in claim 1 further including, determining whether a thirdcondition is fulfilled, wherein the third condition specifies that saidgiven subframe is a DL subframe in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use byfirst UEs and also in the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs,determining whether a fourth condition is fulfilled, wherein the fourthcondition specifies that a PHICH resource is not required by second UEsfor said given subframe, and allocating no PHICH resource to thesubframe when both of the third condition and the fourth condition arefulfilled.
 3. The method for PHICH resource allocation as claimed inclaim 2 further including, for said given subframe, determining whethera fifth condition is fulfilled, wherein the fifth condition specifiesthat a PHICH resource is required by first UEs, calculating the PHICHresource, when all of the third condition, the fourth condition and thefifth condition are fulfilled, required for sending PUSCH HARQ-ACK orremaining PUSCH HARQ-ACK, and allocating the PHICH resource fortransmission thereof via ePHICH IE if available and enabled or via ULgrant if ePHICH IE is not available or not enabled.
 4. The method forPHICH resource allocation as claimed in claim 2 further including,determining whether a sixth condition is fulfilled, wherein the sixthcondition specifies that a PHICH resource is required by second UEs forsaid given subframe, determining whether a seventh condition isfulfilled, wherein the seventh condition specifies that the PHICHresource is not required by first UEs, and allocating the PHICHresource, when all of the third condition, the sixth condition and theseventh condition are fulfilled, according to the LTE timing rulesapplicable to the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs.
 5. Themethod for PHICH resource allocation as claimed in claim 4 furtherincluding, determining whether an eighth condition is fulfilled, whereinthe eighth condition specifies that a PHICH resource is required byfirst UEs for said given subframe, determining whether a ninth conditionis fulfilled, wherein the ninth condition specifies that the PHICHresource required by second UEs is not less than that required by firstUEs, determining whether a tenth condition is fulfilled, wherein thetenth condition specifies that the PHICH resource required by second UEsis not more than that required by first UEs, and allocating the PHICHresource, when all of the third condition, the sixth condition, theeighth condition, the ninth condition and the tenth condition arefulfilled, according to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by second UEs.
 6. The method for PHICH resourceallocation as claimed in claim 5 further including, determining whetheran eleventh condition is fulfilled, wherein the eleventh conditionspecifies that the PHICH resource required by second UEs is more thanthat required by first UEs for said given subframe, allocating the PHICHresource, when all of the third condition, the sixth condition, theeighth condition, the ninth condition and the eleventh condition arefulfilled, according to the LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by second UEs, and allocating the PHICH resourcewith a PHICH group number (I_(PHICH)) equal to one for first UEs.
 7. Themethod for PHICH resource allocation as claimed in claim 5 furtherincluding, determining whether a twelfth condition is fulfilled, whereinthe twelfth condition specifies that the PHICH resource required bysecond UEs is less than that required by first UEs for said givensubframe, allocating the PHICH resource, when all of the thirdcondition, the sixth condition, the eighth condition, and the twelfthcondition are fulfilled, according to the LTE timing rules applicable tothe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs, and allocating thePHICH resource for first UEs to accommodate HARQ-ACK for (an) associatedUL subframe(s) that have PUSCH HARQ-ACK timing aligned with that ofsecond UEs.
 8. The method for PHICH resource allocation as claimed inclaim 7 further including, for said given subframe calculating the PHICHresource, when all of the third condition, the sixth condition, theeighth condition, and the twelfth condition are fulfilled, required forsending PUSCH HARQ-ACK or remaining PUSCH HARQ-ACK of first UEs, andallocating the PHICH resource for transmission thereof via ePHICH IE ifthis is available and enabled or via UL grant if ePHICH IE is notavailable or not enabled.
 9. A base station configured for use in awireless communication system that supports a flexible TDD UL-DLconfiguration and in which different TDD UL-DL configurations areavailable and the TDD UL-DL configuration used by first UEs which areconfigured to operate according to the flexible TDD configuration can bedifferent from the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs which areconfigured to operate according to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration,wherein the base station comprises a processor and a memory storinginstructions that, when executed by the processor, causes the processorto, for a given subframe of a radio frame, determine whether a firstcondition is fulfilled, wherein the first condition specifies that thesaid subframe is not a DL subframe in both the TDD UL-DL configurationin use by first UEs and the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by secondUEs; determine whether a second condition is fulfilled, wherein thesecond condition specifies that the said subframe is a DL subframe inthe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs and an UL subframe inthe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by second UEs, and allocate a PHICHresource based on determining that both of the first condition and thesecond condition are fulfilled, according to LTE timing rules applicableto the TDD UL-DL configuration in use by first UEs.
 10. A mobile stationconfigured for use by first UEs for PUSCH HARQ-ACK and PHICH signallingin a wireless communication system that supports a flexible TDD UL-DLconfiguration and in which different TDD UL-DL configurations areavailable and the TDD UL-DL configuration used by the first UEs whichoperate according to the flexible TDD configuration can be differentfrom the TDD UL-DL configuration used by second UEs which operateaccording to a long term TDD UL-DL configuration, wherein the mobilestation comprises a processor and a memory storing instructions that,when executed by the processor, causes the processor to, for a givenflexible DL subframe of a radio frame in the TDD UL-DL configuration inuse by the first UEs: determine whether a first condition is fulfilled,wherein the first condition specifies that a corresponding subframe inthe TDD UL-DL configuration in use by the second UEs is not a DLsubframe, determine whether a second condition is fulfilled, wherein thesecond condition specifies that the given DL subframe in the TDD UL-DLconfiguration in use by the first UEs is to carry PUSCH HARQ-ACK forfirst UEs, and monitor for PHICH allocation based on determining thatboth of the first condition and the second condition are fulfilled,according to LTE timing rules applicable to the TDD UL-DL configurationin use by first UEs.